Primrose Sands Beach warning – Swimming not currently advised
Regular water sampling undertaken at Primrose Sands Beach has seen several incidences of higher results this summer, which are much higher than the long-term figures.
The sample site at the western end of the beach (the Boat Ramp end) is subject to seepage and stormwater. However, the reason for the high results has not yet been established and is currently under investigation.
In the interim period, swimming is not recommended at the western end of the beach near the boat ramp. The eastern end (below the Primrose Sands General Store) is suitable for swimming and will continue to be monitored throughout the summer swimming season.
The Water Quality Advisory sign at the boat ramp beach entrance has been updated to reflect the current situation, and temporary signage warning signs have also been installed advising people not to swim in this location.
Thank you for your cooperation.
For further information please call 6269 0000 (Monday to Friday 8.00am to 4.30pm).
We conduct water sampling of the recognised swimming beaches in our Municipality weekly over the summer period.
The following swimming beaches are tested weekly over the summer period. Testing from previous years shows that most of our recognised beaches are suitable for swimming.
| Location | Tasmanian Recreational Water Guidelines classification | Comments |
| Connellys Beach | Good | Surface water run-off likely to impact on water quality |
| Primrose Beach | Good | Stormwater may impact on water quality after rainfall |
| Park Beach | Good | |
| Red Ochre Beach (South) | Good | Stormwater may impact on water quality after rainfall |
| Red Ochre Beach (North) aka Blue Lagoon | Good | |
| Tigerhead Beach (Seventh Ave) | Good | Stormwater may impact on water quality after rainfall |
| Midway Point (below McKinly Street) | Moderate | Stormwater may impact on water quality after rainfall |
If two consecutive samples exceed recommended levels, residents are advised not to swim at the beach until subsequent testing has demonstrated that the water is suitable for swimming.
Please ensure you observe signage at the beach access points, as this is where we will notify you if swimming is currently not recommended.
We also update our website and social media accounts if levels exceed recommended levels and advise people not to swim.
You can find out more about this topic on the Department of Health’s website – Recreational water quality | Tasmanian Department of Health